Forced induction terminology — name of the operation that forces additional air under pressure into the cylinder What is the operation called when air is supplied to an engine cylinder at a pressure higher than ambient in order to increase the mass of charge?

Introduction / Context:
To raise specific power, engines often increase the mass of air inducted per cycle so that more fuel can be burned efficiently. This is achieved by compressing the intake air prior to entry into the cylinder, a practice widely used in both SI and CI engines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Air is supplied above atmospheric pressure via compressor, supercharger, or turbocharger.
• Objective is higher charge density and improved volumetric efficiency.

Concept / Approach:
When a mechanically driven compressor is used (or by general terminology), the process is called supercharging; when exhaust energy drives a turbine-compressor unit, it is commonly called turbocharging (a specific form of supercharging). Both increase intake manifold pressure and charge density, allowing more fuel at similar air-fuel ratio without enrichment or smoke.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Increase air pressure upstream of intake valves/ports.Higher pressure → higher density → more oxygen per cycle.More oxygen permits more fuel at similar mixture strength → higher torque and power.This operation is termed supercharging.

Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturer specifications denote “boost pressure” and “supercharged/turbocharged” engines, confirming the terminology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Carburation concerns fuel vaporization/mixing, not pressurization. Turbulence is charge motion inside the cylinder. Ignition delay applies to CI combustion timing, not intake pressurization.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating supercharging strictly with mechanically driven compressors; in broader usage, turbocharging is a subset of supercharging.

Final Answer:
Supercharging